MP steps in over test centre debacle

MP JOHN HUTTON has given campaigners battling to keep motorbike tests in Barrow added hope after meeting with Driving Standards Agency (DSA) officials.

Following the meeting the DSA have promised to look into an alternative solution to scrapping motorcycle testing in the area.

The battle started after DSA announced plans to cut the number of test centres offering bike tests from October, in favour of multi-purpose test centres. The initiative would leave South Cumbrian learner motorcyclists facing a two-hour journey to the nearest centres in Carlisle or Blackburn.

Mr Hutton said: “I very much hope we may be able to identify a suitable site and would urge anyone who feels they are aware of a site that measures 125m x 40m of tarmac surface with no hazards such as drain covers or lampposts and is within two or three miles of a variety of modern test routes, to make their suggestions known.”